Having a roommate is a smart idea in today’s economy! But learning how to live with another person can be difficult even for the best of friends. Before you move in together, it’s a good idea to talk to your future roommate about several topics so living together can go as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips to help you be a good roommate:
- Figure out the expectations early on regarding cleaning and chore division and also how early or late certain chores are acceptable (like vacuuming or doing the dishes)
- Make time for each other even if you’re not best friends. Getting to know each other will make living together easier and more peaceful.
- Discuss likes and dislikes like which way the toilet paper roll should hang on the bar, if silverware should be placed up or down in the dishwasher, whether blinds should be left opened or closed, if the TV can be on at night for background noise, how often the trash should be taken out, etc.
- Be mindful of your volume and wear headphones when listening to music, Tik Tok and Youtube videos
- Discuss comfort level and expectations regarding visitors (like who visits, how many visitors, how often will there be visitors, will visitors occasionally stay the night?)
- Talk to roommate about issues when they are happening instead of bottling feelings up and growing resentful
- While communication is important as stated above, try to let the small things go since you’re not going to ‘change’ your roommate
- Respect your roommate’s lifestyle: religion, sexual preference, cultural differences